No special background or education is needed to become a CASA volunteer. We encourage people from all cultures and professions, and all ethnic and educational backgrounds. Once accepted into the program, you will receive all necessary training in courtroom procedures, social services, the juvenile system and the special needs of abused and neglected children.

Requirements include:

• Be 21 years old
• Be willing to complete necessary background checks, provide references and participate in an interview
• Complete a minimum of 30 hours of pre-service training
• Be available for court appearances, with advance notice
• Be willing to commit to the CASA program at least until your first case is closed

Becoming a CASA volunteer is an investment of time, energy and heart. But as many volunteers have said of the children they worked with: "It wasn't about what I gave them, it was what they showed me."

All volunteers must complete a 30-hour pre-service training. The time commitment to a case varies depending upon the stage of the case. Volunteers sometimes say there is a greater amount of work in the beginning of the case, when they are conducting their initial research. On average, you can expect to spend approximately 10 hours a month on a case.

You are asked to dedicate yourself to a case until it's closed. The average case lasts about a year and a half. We ask you commit to seeing your case to closure.

You will be supported every step of the way. You will be appointed to an Advocate Coordinator who will assist you throughout your case. Additional training will be available for continuing education.